How Jurrien Timber Could Be the X-Factor in Arsenal’s Title Bid
When he recovers from injury, Jurrien Timber might have a significant impact on Arsenal’s chances of winning the Premier League. The Dutch defender moved to the Emirates Stadium in the summer for £38 million, and he had a great preseason.
Regretfully, Timber’s Premier League debut with the Gunners was cut short by an anterior cruciate ligament injury to his right knee. His absence has cost Arsenal dearly, and following surgery, he is anticipated to be sidelined for an extended period of time.
Due to Timber’s injury, Mikel Arteta has had to rely on the same defence as the previous campaign, which has resulted in Ben White, William Saliba, and Gabriel Magalhaes playing more minutes than they would have if Timber was well. Due to his availability, Arsenal might have rotated their starting lineup more frequently, which would have helped them manage player fatigue and match overload.
Regarding Timber’s recuperation, Arteta responded, “He’s doing really well,” when questioned. Even though he is recovering from a really serious injury, he is performing admirably at this point.
Observing him at work each day is quite fulfilling. He will be missed for a very long time.”
The Spaniard continued, “The first few steps are crucial for the amount of work they have to do in the knee,” in response to a question on how quickly Timber is recovering. to restore one’s strength and mobility.”
If Arteta’s team is still in the running for the trophy at the end of the season, Timber’s comeback will be a tremendous boost for Arsenal and may potentially affect everything in the title battle. Given that he would complete the puzzle of Arteta’s tactical scheme at the Emirates Stadium, the Dutch international was viewed as an essential acquisition.
Thomas Partey started as right back in Arsenal’s opening day defensive lineup, while Ben White and William Saliba were paired at centre back and Timber was at left back. Since then, Gabriel and Saliba have rejoined, with White shifting back to right-back. However, Oleksandr Zinchenko’s effectiveness at left-back has been questioned.
Although Takehiro Tomiyasu has performed well for Arsenal this season, Arteta is now limited in his defensive choices due to his recent injury. Together with league leaders Liverpool, the Gunners have the joint-best defensive record in the Premier League thus far this season, having let up just 15 goals.
In addition to adding depth to the squad—especially if the Gunners advance far in the FA Cup and Champions League and continue to compete for the championship—Timber’s return would allow Arteta to adopt his preferred tactical scheme once again. This might be a key element in determining whether Arsenal ends their 20-year Premier League title drought.
